Cinnarizine is an antihistamine and calcium channel blocker used to treat symptoms of vertigo, motion sickness, and nausea. It is also used to treat symptoms of anxiety and reduce the risk of blood clots. It works by blocking calcium channels in the body, which helps to reduce the effects of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic reactions. Cinnarizine is available in tablet and liquid form.
Cinnarizine is a medication primarily used to treat conditions related to the inner ear and balance, including:
- Motion sickness: This refers to nausea, vomiting, and dizziness experienced during travel like car rides, boat trips, or flights. Cinnarizine helps prevent these symptoms by reducing activity in the part of the brain responsible for balance and nausea.
- Vertigo: This is a sensation of dizziness or spinning caused by inner ear problems. Cinnarizine improves blood flow in the inner ear, alleviating vertigo symptoms.
- Ménière's disease: This inner ear disorder involves episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and pressure in the ear. Cinnarizine is one of the few medications shown to be effective in managing the chronic symptoms of Ménière's disease, particularly vertigo and tinnitus.
How it works:
Cinnarizine has two main mechanisms of action:
- Antihistamine effect: It blocks the effects of histamine, a substance involved in allergic reactions, to some extent. This helps reduce nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
- Calcium channel blocking effect: It blocks calcium channels in the inner ear, improving blood flow and reducing the activity that causes vertigo symptoms.
Things to know about Cinnarizine:
- It is available in tablet form and typically taken before travel or the onset of vertigo symptoms.
- Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, weight gain, and fatigue.
- It can interact with other medications, so inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Cinnarizine.
- It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with certain medical conditions.
Always consult a healthcare professional before taking Cinnarizine to discuss its suitability for your individual needs and ensure it's safe for you to use.